Evidence of a fall in cord blood lead levels in South Wales 1984–85

Abstract

A monitoring scheme for blood lead was based on cord blood samples and maternal blood samples taken in Swansea, South Wales. A fall of around 20% during 1984-85 is described. During this period there was virtually no change in petrol sales in the area and no overall change in air lead levels. Air lead showed large seasonal changes but these were not reflected in blood lead. Water lead levels gave no evidence of changes of any importance during the period of monitoring. These results suggest that petrol lead was at most a minor contributor to blood lead.